The incident occurred on december 24 late Wednesday evening, as the victim was commuting home. According to reports and social media accounts of the ordeal, the woman was targeted near the Silk Board flyover by a group of men on motorcycles. What began as lewd comments quickly escalated into a terrifying pursuit that lasted for nearly four kilometres along the Outer Ring Road (ORR).
Details of the Ordeal
The victim noted that despite the presence of heavy traffic and streetlights, the group showed no fear of intervention.
- The Pursuit: The men allegedly circled her vehicle, blocked her path multiple times, and made obscene gestures.
- Lack of Immediate Help: The victim attempted to signal other commuters, but the fast-moving traffic and the aggressive maneuvering of the harassers made it difficult for bystanders to intervene safely.
- The Escape: The chase finally ended when the woman managed to pull into a fuel station equipped with CCTV cameras and visible security guards, prompting the group to flee toward HSR Layout.
Police Response and Investigation
The Bengaluru City Police, after being alerted through a social media post that went viral on Thursday morning, have taken suo motu cognizance of the matter.
- CCTV Surveillance: Police are currently scanning footage from the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) cameras located at Silk Board and the HSR Layout sector gates.
- Patrol Intensification: DCP (South-East) has reportedly ordered increased "Hoysala" patrolling on the Silk Board-Marathahalli stretch during late-night hours.
Bengaluru Women Safety: Rising Concerns
This incident highlights a recurring pattern of "street dominance" by harassers in areas like BTM Layout, Silk Board, and HSR Layout, which host thousands of female IT professionals living in PGs. Citizens are now demanding the installation of "Emergency Panic Buttons" on signal poles and more visible foot patrolling to deter such brazen acts of violence.
